Journey Details

The paddle starts at the confluence of the North and West Forks of the French Broad River, and winds through farmland, under a canopy of trees, before widening to reveal the stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. The river cuts through the Biltmore Estate, and paddlers will catch a unique view of the majestic house. We will have an afternoon to explore the Biltmore Estate grounds and tour the winery.

Just past the Biltmore Estate, the river flows through the city of Asheville, where the five-day trip ends. The four-day trips takes paddlers on a stunning voyage that starts with barbecue at the edge of the river, while paddling through the Asheville River District. After leaving Asheville the river begins its decent toward Pisgah National Forest. A few rapids await paddlers before we jump into guided rafts to meet the class III-IV whitewater head on. A soak in the natural hot springs precedes our last day of paddling to Paint Rock, Tenn.

This trip features some of the most stunning scenery in the region, and we will highlight and sample for several water quality threats to the watershed, including E. coli and potentially heavy metals.

Camping has been arranged for each night of the trip, providing an exciting opportunity to paddle camp along the banks of the river every night of your journey. There will be a great barbecue lunch, evening dinner in Brevard, Marshall, and Hot Springs, and you can catch your fill of small mouth bass while enjoying the company of other paddlers on the river and around the fire.

The five-day trip is the perfect trip for families and beginners and the four-day trip offers easy paddling, with some moderate rapids mixed in to keep the day exciting. A van will be provided each day for shuttling and transporting gear. The trip will be limited to about 20 people a day so everyone can enjoy the quiet beauty of the river.